been so largely increased in number, chiefly by generous 

 gifts, that at the present time, those that are owned by 

 the Municipality, have been valued at nearly ^20,000. 

 Under these circumstances the Committee have been 

 able to return the compliment, to several Corporations 

 that have been kind to them in the past, by lending 

 from the permanent collection pictures that have been 

 desired. 



During the year the inventory of the whole of the 

 contents of the two buildings has been carefully revised, 

 changes in position have been noted, and the value of 

 individual objects or collections assessed. This exten- 

 sive undertaking was followed by a revision of the 

 insurance policies, so that all that is under the care 

 of the Committee is now amply insured. 



Various structural improvements have been effected, 

 partly to provide for the safety of the staff and other 

 workmen, and also to improve appliances, and facilitate 

 the work of the different departments. 



The Committee have caused cabinets containing 

 "First Aid" remedies to be placed in each of the 

 buildings, and as there are amongst the attendants 

 those who have had practical training in the use of 

 such remedies, as well as in the use of " First Aid " 

 appliances generally, the accidents of life within the 

 buildings are so far provided for. 



The free lectures which have been delivered have 

 proved very attractive. They afford immense pleasure 

 at a small cost, and have done much to popularise both 

 the Museum of Natural History and the Art Gallery. 

 A list of lectures to be given during the coming winter 

 has been prepared. 



The Committee have not overlooked the question of 

 providing accommodation for specimens of the ancient 



